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The Anambra State Commissioner of Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Ifeanyi Okoma, has called on the Federal Government to give adequate recognition to and empower engineers to be the architects of change capable of enhancing economic, infrastructural and technological development of Nigeria.
Okoma disclosed this while speaking at the Monthly general meeting of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Awka branch, held in Awka on Saturday, with the Theme: “The Role of Pubic, Private, Community Partnership (PPCP), in Anambra State’s Infrastructure Development.
According to the Commissioner, no country in the world has achieved sustained economic advancement without harnessing the power of engineering and innovation.
He said Nigeria, with its vast resources and entrepreneurial spirit, has all the ingredients necessary for industrial and technological transformation.
“However, for the country to fully realize the desired technological development and advancement, government must create an environment where engineering excellence, research and innovation can thrive, translating into real economic impact.
Describing the roles of engineers as critical in shaping Nigeria’s economy, Okoma stressed that engineering had always been at the heart of economic progress, adding: “from infrastructure to technology, from industrialisation to digital transformation, engineers build the systems that drive growth.
“Nigeria, with its vast resources and entrepreneurial spirit, has all the ingredients necessary for industrial and technological transformation.
“However, to fully realize our potential, we must recognize and empower engineers as the architects of this change. We must create an environment where engineering excellence, research, and innovation can thrive, translating into real economic impact.
“Although Nigeria’s industrial sector has seen growth in key areas namely manufacturing, construction, and energy, several challenges—such as infrastructure deficits, limited access to technology and innovation, workforce development, and policy and regulatory bottlenecks still hinder the nation’s full potential.
“As engineers, we must rise to the occasion. Be problem-solvers, not just practitioners. Embrace innovation and continuous learning, and advocate for engineering leadership in national development.”
The Commissioner assured the NSE of government continues support in the war against quackery in the state.
Awka branch Chairman of NSE, Engr. Maryjane Oluchi Okoli, MNSE, said her leadership would continue to redefine engineering excellence by engineering the future in Awka and Anambra State at large.
“Our strategic priorities include enhancing capacity development, strengthening industry and government collaborations, expanding membership engagement, advancing engineering advocacy, increasing community impact and publicity, and secretariat development,” the Chairman stated.
The meeting which witnessed awards and certificate presentation to the commissioner as honorarium in keeping to the tradition of the Engineering Society was graced by good number of virtual and physical participants cutting across Graduate Members, Cooperate Member and Fellows of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Several Branch chairmen, Zonal Executive and National Executive of the Society.
Among them included President/Chairman in Council, Nigeria Society of Engineers (NSE), Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala, FNSE, Rtn Engr Obiudu Chidi MNSE, FNIHTE a member of NSE Awka Branch and Administrative assistant to Mr Commissioner.
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